Alpha-linolenic acid

Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) is a type of omega-3 fatty acid found in plant sources like flaxseeds, chia seeds, walnuts, and soybean oil. It is essential for your body, meaning you need to obtain it from your diet because your body cannot produce it on its own. ALA plays a vital role in supporting heart health, reducing inflammation, and maintaining proper brain function. While your body can convert some ALA into other beneficial omega-3s, like EPA and DHA, this process is limited, so including ALA-rich foods in your diet is important for overall well-being.